Ton Sai Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ton Sai, a scenic coastal village in Southern Thailand known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventure activities, and delicious Thai cuisine.


Introduction to Ton Sai

Ton Sai is a small, laid-back village located in the Krabi Province of Southern Thailand. The village is situated on the west coast of the Railay Peninsula, nestled between limestone cliffs and the Andaman Sea. Ton Sai is a popular destination for rock climbers, hikers, kayakers, and other outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Ton Sai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Phra Nang Cave: This cave is located on the eastern side of the Railay Peninsula and is home to a sacred fertility shrine.
  • Krabi Town: A must-see for history lovers, Krabi Town is home to several historical sites and cultural landmarks, including the Khao Khanab Nam Mountains and the Wat Kaew Korawaram temple.

Natural Attractions of Ton Sai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Krabi Jungle: A lush jungle located just south of Krabi Town, the Krabi Jungle is perfect for trekking, wildlife spotting, and camping.
  • Koh Phi Phi: A pair of beautiful islands located just a short boat ride from Ton Sai, Koh Phi Phi is known for its turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ton Sai

  • Railay Viewpoint Hike: A challenging but rewarding hike that takes you to the top of a hill overlooking the entire Railay Peninsula.
  • Tub Kaek Bike Trail: A scenic bike route that winds through the lush forests and hills of Krabi, offering breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea along the way.

Best Things to Do in Ton Sai: Activities and Tours

  • Rock Climbing: Ton Sai is one of the best destinations in the world for rock climbing, with hundreds of routes for climbers of all levels.
  • Kayaking: Paddle your way through the tranquil waters around Ton Sai, exploring hidden lagoons and coves along the way.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ton Sai

Day Activity
1 Explore the Railay Peninsula
2 Visit Koh Phi Phi
3 Go rock climbing or kayaking
4 Take a day trip to Krabi Town
5 Relax on one of Ton Sai’s beautiful beaches
6 Hike to the Railay Viewpoint
7 Enjoy a sunset cruise around the Andaman Sea

Food and Drink Scene of Ton Sai

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pad Thai: Thailand’s most famous dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish made with meat, vegetables, and tamarind sauce.
  • Tom Yam Kung: A spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, lime juice, and chili peppers.

Local Beverages

  • Thai Iced Tea: A sweet and creamy tea made with condensed milk and served over ice.
  • Singha Beer: A popular Thai beer that pairs well with spicy dishes and hot weather.

Where to Stay in Ton Sai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Freedom Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located just a short walk from Ton Sai Beach.
  • Railay Princess Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort offering stunning views of the Andaman Sea and Railay Beach.

What to Buy in Ton Sai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Thai Silk Scarves: A colorful and elegant souvenir that will add a touch of Thailand to your wardrobe.
  • Elephant Pants: Comfortable and lightweight pants featuring iconic Thai elephant motifs.

Local Culture and Customs of Ton Sai

  • Respect the Monarchy: The Thai monarchy is highly regarded in Thailand, and disrespecting it can lead to serious consequences.
  • Removing Shoes: It is customary to remove your shoes before entering homes, temples, and other places of worship in Thailand.

Best Time to Visit Ton Sai

The best time to visit Ton Sai is between the months of November and April, when the weather is dry and sunny with temperatures averaging around 30°C. The rainy season, from May to October, can bring heavy downpours and rough seas, so it is not the best time for outdoor activities and beach hopping.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ton Sai

Do:

  • Dress Conservatively: When visiting temples or other religious sites, cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
  • Haggle: Negotiating prices is common in Thailand, especially in markets and street vendors.

Don’t:

  • Litter: Thailand has a serious problem with pollution, so it is important to dispose of your trash properly.
  • Touching Monk: It is considered disrespectful to touch a monk in Thailand, so keep a respectful distance if you encounter one.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ton Sai

Ton Sai is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is important to take common-sense precautions to avoid theft or other crimes. Keep your valuables securely locked away, use common sense when walking around at night, and avoid isolated areas.

Health in Ton Sai

Thailand is a relatively healthy country, but it is advisable to take certain precautions to avoid common illnesses such as diarrhea or mosquito-borne diseases. Wash your hands frequently, drink only bottled or filtered water, and wear insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Ton Sai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ton Sai

The closest major airport to Ton Sai is Krabi International Airport, which receives flights from major cities throughout Asia and beyond.

Bus Stations Near Ton Sai

Buses from Krabi Town and other nearby destinations run regularly to Ton Sai, with prices ranging from 50 to 100 THB.

Other Options

If you prefer to travel by sea, there are frequent ferry services from Krabi Town, Phuket, and Koh Phi Phi to Ton Sai.

How to Get Around in Ton Sai

Ton Sai is a small, walkable village that can easily be explored on foot. However, if you want to venture further afield, you can rent a bike or a scooter from one of the many rental shops in the village.

Where to Go Next from Ton Sai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Koh Lanta: A peaceful island destination known for its rustic charm and stunning beaches.
  • Khao Sok National Park: A pristine rainforest located just a few hours from Ton Sai, offering opportunities for jungle trekking and wildlife spotting.

Conclusion

Ton Sai is a charming, adventure-filled village tucked away on Thailand’s southern coast. Whether you’re a rock climber, hiker, kayaker, or simply a lover of natural beauty, this coastal paradise is the perfect destination for your next Thai adventure. So pack your bags and start planning your trip to Ton Sai today!

Ton Sai beach. Raileh beach is just to the right out of view Ton Sai beach. Raileh beach is just to the right out of view Ton Sai beach - this is how rocky it is at low tide Ton Sai beach - this is how rocky it is at low tide Ton Sai beach at high tide Ton Sai beach at high tide